Designing for Complexity

Simplicity is a frequent mantra for designers and a worthy goal. But life, well, life is infinitely complicated, and sometimes software become quite complex as well. So what does a well-intentioned designer do when faced with the challenges of designing for a complex system?

This session will first explore some common examples in well-known applications that involve intricate workflows, massive amounts of data, and generic rocket science type complexity. Next, six general heuristics for handling complexity will be discussed with in-depth examples and case studies:

1. Prioritize Tasks
2. Be Consistent and Use Patterns
3. Use Data Visualizations (wisely)
4. Adapt UI to Roles
5. Learn and Habituate Based on Behavior
6. And Remember, the Simplest UI is no UI

At the end of this presentation, you will no longer fear the complex. Instead, this session aims to inspire attendees to embrace, solve for and even celebrate complexity.